Job Description

Democratic Services Officer


Professional 2B


Publish date: Wednesday 25 June 2025


Closing date: 12:00 - Monday 4 August 2025


Salary: 39,513


Hours - Full Time [12 Month Fixed Term]


Overview


West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) is the second largest fire and rescue service in England, serving an area of 902 square kilometres and a population of more than 2.9 million people.


Our vision is 'Making the West Midlands safer, stronger and healthier'.


This vision and the strategic goals outlined in 'Our Strategy' are what drives the people, professionalism and pride with which we serve our communities.


Are you passionate about democratic processes and good governance? Do you thrive in a dynamic environment supporting senior leaders and elected Members? WMFS is seeking a highly organised and motivated Democratic Services Officer to join our Governance and Strategic Planning team.



In this pivotal role, you'll be responsible for ensuring the effective administration of the West Midlands Fire and Rescue Authority (WMFRA) and its associated governance functions as part of the Democratic Services team. As part of a supportive and forward-thinking Strategic planning and governance team, you will help drive transparency, compliance, and continual improvement across our democratic services.



The publication of the WMFRA Improvement Plan in June 2025 provides a unique opportunity for the successful candidate to shape and enhance the service's governance processes.



WMFS would be happy to consider secondments from existing democratic services roles for a 12-month period.



Experience and skills


We're looking for someone with:


proven experience of local government governance frameworks and democratic processes


strong organisational skills


excellent communication and relationship-building abilities


experience managing competing priorities and maintaining confidentiality


a commitment to professional development and continuous improvement.


Essential Criteria


To apply for this role you will need:


GCSEs in English and Maths (grade C/4 or above) or equivalent


qualification and/or significant experience relevant to democratic services


evidence of continued professional development


proficiency in IT and committee and meeting management systems.


Desirable Criteria


It would be advantageous to have:


membership of a professional body such as the Association of Democratic Services Officers (ADSO)


ADSO certificate or diploma, or similar governance qualifications


knowledge of relevant public sector legislation and fire service governance


experience training or briefing members and officers


higher education qualification in a relevant field (for example, politics or public sector management).


This post is politically restricted under Section 2 of the Local Government and Housing Act 1989.


Benefits


We offer a friendly working environment and benefits including:


flexible and agile working arrangements


free, on-site gym facilities


free, on-site parking.


We also offer access to an in-house occupational health (OH) facility, including OH health and fitness advisors, sports therapists, physiotherapists, cognitive behavioural therapy practitioners and counsellors.


In addition, employees have access to:


24/7 Employee Assistance Programme


wellbeing programmes


'blue light' discounts across many retailers, through partner schemes


Sports and Welfare scheme (for a small fee), with access to discounted products and services.


Diversity


We welcome applications from all eligible candidates. However, as women and Black and minority ethnic employees are currently under-represented in our service, we particularly encourage applications from these groups.


WMFS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults. We expect the same of every staff member.


Successful candidates will be subject to necessary pre-employment checks, including - where applicable - relevant level Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, qualifications, medical clearance, identity and right to work. All applicants will be required to provide two suitable references.


How to apply


Should you wish to proceed with an application please read through the for the role and complete the application form.


Questions


If you have any questions about the role, or would like an informal discussion, please contact Tom Embury on 07590 721088 or Lucy Lawson on 07973 810494.